The study of human nature involves a fascinating journey into several complex scientific disciplines. Curiosity is the driving force behind this desire to understand ourselves and the world around us. Most of us have some of it and a few have it in abundance.
In Acts 2:32-35, Luke describes the economics of the early church.
The first thing he points out is that the believers “were of one heart and soul.” There was no division among them. They were all pulling in the same direction, loving God and loving one another.
The second thing he points out is that “no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own,” Nothing triggered their survival instinct that there might not be enough for everyone. They trusted the community to provide. They trusted God, we would say. There was no reason for anyone to hoard anything, so “they had everything in common.”
The third thing he points out is that “[T]here was not a needy person among them.” Those who had something trusted that everyone would be taken care of “as any had need.”
Possessions tend to separate us into those who have and those who do not. In Christian economics, no one is left out, no one is in need. How is this possible? Aren’t the leaders going to keep it all for themselves? No, not if we are all of one heart and soul and believe that the Earth has enough resources that everyone can be taken care of as they have need.
The story about the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17-27 illustrates this perfectly. Possessions are what keeps us out of Heaven. Possessions are what keeps us all from enjoying abundant life. It is not enough to tax the rich. We must all agree to quit hoarding things and trust that there is enough for everyone.
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